Overview
- The KEF’s near-final 25th report proposes raising the monthly fee by €0.28 to €18.64 on 1 January 2027, down from a previously suggested €18.94.
- The revised figure reflects higher-than-expected contribution receipts in 2023–2024 (€129.7 million), a roughly €1.2 billion special reserve, stronger investment returns and underspending.
- The report faces final hearings in December and publication in February 2026, with only limited changes considered likely, and the states have until the end of 2026 to decide.
- The fee remains €18.36 after states blocked the 2025 rise, and ARD and ZDF’s constitutional complaint is pending with a ruling expected in 2026.
- KEF says the new level would meet broadcasters’ needs for the 2025–2028 period if adopted, while newly enacted reforms are expected to have no significant impact before 2029.